SANDRA ZOE BROWN, Ph.D.

Perhaps you are struggling with challenges that interfere with your ability to function and enjoy life. Maybe you are you experiencing depression, addiction, excessive stress, relationship problems, anxiety, worry, grief, family strife or a life transition. Maybe you are questioning the meaning of your life, or are affected by a loved one’s addictions? Seeking help and support is a start to relief, clarity, and change.

For more than 40 years, I’ve worked with individuals, couples, families, and groups. My practice is based on an amalgamation of experience derived from a broad range of theories and therapies. Since each of us have a unique background, genetics, developmental history, culture, and life experience, there is not one single theory, manual, or approach that applies to all of us. My individualized approach is due to a combination of clinical experience, education, intuition, and confidence in the therapeutic process. It is important to understand that all therapy approaches must be based in a trusting, caring, and interactive therapeutic relationship.

With a strong and in-depth background in psychotherapy, I pay close attention to both conscious and unconscious motivations in order to help you understand yourself better. Along with this, I use a wide variety of therapeutic approaches. I have specialized training in alcohol, drugs, and behavioral addictions, the effects of addictions on the family, adult ADHD/ADD, Ericksonian Hypnotherapy, and EMDR. I am fluent in American Sign Language and work with hard-of-hearing and deaf individuals and families.

OUR FOCUS:

Our work starts by focusing on what you are currently experiencing. Each person and situation is unique and your psychotherapy will be tailored to fit you.

HOW THIS WORKS:

Whether you are contacting me as an individual, a couple, or a family, our initial meeting will clarify your unique challenges, history, and goals. No two people or families are alike and your therapy will be tailored to your needs and goals.

Since we all have blind spots, the development of trust, in addition to my expertise, is central to our success. It is crucial that you have a safe place to explore your past, present, and hopes for your future without the usual editing that is done in daily interactions. As you learn to trust yourself and me, we’ll explore your world, identify your blind spots, map out your potential new options, and build a working relationship based on a safe therapeutic environment. I will encourage you to take risks in areas vital to your making the changes you want. As a result of therapy being an active process, your goals may change as your therapy unfolds. You can count on me to give you my full attention, honest assessment, and experience.

I do not work in child custody, work-related disabilities, worker compensation, or anything related to the legal system. I no longer perform formal testing assessments, but I’m happy to refer you to professionals who do.

My Background

Initially I was drawn to the field of psychology because of my fascination with the brain and neuroscience. Having become intensely curious about what makes people tick, my focus changed from research to working directly with people. This directed my university studies and professional goals and I earned my BA at CSUN, and a Master’s and Ph.D. at USC.

In 1981, I opened my practice in Torrance, CA. Early in my career, I taught psychology courses at USC, Loyola Marymount University, and Antioch University, and have supervised many interns. One highlight of my career was teaching workshops abroad to psychologists and psychiatrists from the former Eastern Bloc countries. Interacting with different cultures and languages along with the direct exposure to the generational effects of war trauma profoundly deepened my understanding of psychology and psychotherapy. As a lifelong student, I continue to enjoy workshops, trainings and reading current research.

I am not contracted as a provider for any insurance company. This means I am considered out-of-network. Fees are paid directly to me. My office is equipped with electronic billing. At your request, we can bill your insurance company electronically. Your reimbursements are paid directly to you unless other arrangements are made with me.

Fees are determined by the amount of time we meet. We’ll meet 45, 60, or 90 minutes, depending upon your needs and our agreement. Other services such as report writing, attendance at meetings, preparation of records, telephone conversations longer than 15 minutes, or other services you may request, are billed on a prorated basis. I am happy to discuss this with you when we meet.

Please note: many insurance companies require you to authorize your psychologist to provide a diagnosis and clinical information. Once the insurance companies have this information, I have no control over what they do with this information.

I invite you to contact me if you would like to have a private conversation.